Equal Earth Map Row: The UN recently released a new map called the Equal Earth. Now, Japan’s government has pointed out that the map depicts Russia as well as some disputed islands in the same colour & also demanded some changes.
Equal Earth Map Row: Japanese Government’s Statement
Japan has requested modifications to an Equal Earth world map after the country’s disputed Northern Territories were shown in the same colour as Russia. Tokyo has expressed concerns that this depiction could give a misleading impression regarding Japan’s territorial claims over the islands. Minoru Kihara, the Chief Cabinet Secretary of the Japanese embassy in the US.
What is the Equal Earth Map?
In 2018, the Equal Earth projection was created as an alternative to the Mercator map. Its goal is to maintain the relative surface areas of land masses, thereby lessening the size distortion found in traditional world maps.
Speaking about the same, Kihara said that “Displays that contradict the Japanese government’s position are seen (on the map). ” He added that “We need to prevent incorrect perceptions regarding our country’s territories and geographical names from spreading”.
On September 4, 2026, the UN’s General Assembly passed a resolution & pushed for more widespread usage of the map. It shows the Northern Territories, as islands that are controlled by Russia, but also claimed by Japan.
Equal Earth Map Row: Why is Japan Against the Map?
At the heart of the controversy is how the Equal Earth map depicts Japan’s Northern Territories – four islands that Russia controls but Japan claims.
On the Equal Earth map featured in Japanese news reports, the islands appear in the same colour as Russian territory, whereas the main Japanese archipelago is shown in a different one. The islands are likewise marked with Russian names, together with a note stating that Russia has effective control while Japan asserts sovereignty.
Equal Earth Map Row: Russia’s Response
Russian authorities have not yet responded to the demands of the Japanese government yet.
About the Northern Territories Dispute
The Northern Territories are made up of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai Islands. Japan regards them as inherent Japanese territory, stating that Russia has illegally occupied them since the end of World War II. Russia has maintained control over the islands since 1945.
